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Medication tips for swallowing pills

This video explains why swallowing medication can be difficult and shares simple tips to make it safer, such as leaning forward instead of tilting the head back, staying relaxed, and keeping the mouth moist. It also advises consulting a pharmacist before altering medications and considering alternative forms if needed.

Have a look at this video for more simple tips to make taking medicine easier.

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Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) can make taking pills particularly difficult, even for those who can manage food and liquids. It requires coordination between solids (tablet) and liquids, which can be harder with cognitive or swallowing impairments. See safe tips below:

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TIPS FOR SWALLOWING PILLS

Common mistake: tilting the head back when swallowing pills.

  • This exposes the airway and can increase choking or coughing risk.
  • It may make swallowing less efficient.

Alternative technique:

  • Lean slightly forward or tuck the chin to the chest.
  • It helps guide the pill and fluid more naturally and safely .

Anxiety and stress can tighten throat muscles, making swallowing harder.

  • Stay relaxed or ensure person is relaxed. Avoid building anxiety around medication time. 

Dry mouth can cause pills to stick in mouth. 

  • Take sips of water before taking the pill to moisten the mouth.
  • Oral lubrication gel or spray can help in severe cases. 
  • Some medications can cause dry mouth. Consult a pharmacist.

For people using thickened fluids: 

  • Medication intake may need adjustment.
  • Some liquid medications can be thickened. Consult a pharmacist as certain thickeners may interact differently with medications.

Crushing pills or mixing with food (e.g. yoghurt) may help. 

  • Only do this if approved by a pharmacist, as some medications will only work if they’re administered in a certain way. 

Alternative medication forms may be available: 

  • Such as liquids, patches and effervescent tablets.

Legal considerations: 

  • Modifying or administering medications covertly (e.g. hidden in food) may require formal legal approval.

Liquid medication tips: 

  • Some prefer syringing medication into the mouth. However, this may increase choking risk as it is difficult to control speed. 
  • Instead, it’s advised to try a small spoon or cup. 

 

We encourage you to seek advice from a GP, pharmacist or another healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions. 

Meet our experts

Chloe Green

Chloe completed a BSc in Speech and Language Therapy from City University of London. She started her career in the NHS in the adult acute setting and has worked across a range of medical specialities, including frailty, respiratory medicine, oncology and neurological rehabilitation. Chloe subsequently specialised in voice and upper airway disorders. In her current NHS clinical practice alongside her work at Nightingale Hammerson, she is based in the paediatric acute service within Bart’s Health Trust, as well as running a paediatric Voice and Upper Airway service. At Nightingale Hammerson, Chloe works within the multidisciplinary therapy team, supporting Residents with Dysphagia (swallowing problems) and communication difficulties. She enjoys maximising Resident’s quality of life and supporting members of the care team with learning and development. 

 

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The resources available are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances.  The resources are for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgment before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. Full terms and conditions.